Vaginal Mesh and Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Transvaginal mesh, a type of surgical mesh inserted transvaginally, is typically used during surgical procedures designed to repair the pelvic floor. For example, this material is often use to repair Pelvic organ prolapse, or POP. Though transvaginal mesh has long been used to correct pelvic organ prolapse, many women have experienced complications from this surgical material, often leaving them in worse condition than they had been prior to surgery. If you have POP, you should be aware of several things before proceeding with surgery.

Transvaginal Mesh And Pelvic Organ Prolapse

POP sounds frightening, but it is actually a common condition in women. During pregnancy or childbirth, the rectum, uterus, or bladder may shift due to muscle stretching or weakening. When the pelvic organs drop, or prolapse, from their normal position within the lower stomach and begin pushing against the vaginal walls, the situation is referred to as POP. This condition can be uncomfortable or even painful and while it may improve over time, it could get worse.

The bladder is the most common organ to prolapse, but multiple pelvic organs can prolapse simultaneously. These include the rectum, small bowel, vagina, uterus, and urethra. Most commonly, the prolapse is due to strain incurred during childbirth, which stretches or weakens muscles within the lower belly. If these muscles do not recover following childbirth, they cannot support the pelvic organs.

POP can also occur following a hysterectomy, which is a surgery that removes the uterus. When the uterus is removed, other pelvic organs may be left with less support, causing them to drop. If exercises designed to strengthen pelvic muscles fail or the condition is severe, surgery may be required. During the procedure a surgical mesh designed for hernia repair may be used to help reinforce vaginal tissues. This mesh comes in different types – the polypropylene and polyester versions are most commonly used.

The Issues Regarding Vaginal Mesh And Pelvic Organ Prolapse

In 2002, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) approved this vaginal mesh to repair POP. The FDA offers various ways for patients and/or healthcare providers to report adverse events resulting from drugs or medical devices. Manufacturers must also track potential adverse results related to their products. During the first few years that vaginal mesh was used to repair POP and treat another condition called stress urinary incontinence, there were 1,105 adverse events reported.

Between 2008 and 2011, there were an additional 2,874 adverse reports. In a 2011 report on the topic, the FDA revealed that the most common problems occurred when the mesh was used to repair POP. These problems included pain, infections in the surgical area, urinary tract issues, bleeding from the mesh location, and mesh eroding or protruding from soft tissues. The most serious problems involved damage to nearby organs.

Issues pertaining to vaginal mesh and pelvic organ prolapse are typically experienced at least one month following surgery. Average mesh erosion time varies by patient. To treat an erosion, infection, or pain resulting from mesh insertion, a vaginal incision is often made and the mesh is removed. Multiple surgeries may be required to remove the mesh and repair the POP.

If you or a loved one suffered complications following transvaginal mesh surgery to correct pelvic organ prolapse, it is important that you consult your doctor immediately. Be sure to keep records of your doctor visits, procedures, and expenses, as this information will be needed by your attorney should you choose to seek compensation for your injuries by filing a transvaginal mesh lawsuit.

If you would like to explore the possibility of filing a transvaginal mesh lawsuit, we urge you to contact Bernstein Liebhard LLP as soon as possible. Our experienced attorneys will conduct a thorough evaluation of your case, and file an individual lawsuit on your behalf if they determine you have a valid claim. To speak with one of our transvaginal mesh lawyers, please call 1-(888)-217-3033 or fill out the Free Case Evaluation form on this page, and someone from our legal staff will contact you shortly.

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